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| Abia State introduces compulsory Igbo language education. |
In a heartfelt endeavor to keep the Igbo language alive and kicking, the Abia State Government unveiled plans to make Igbo a compulsory subject statewide in forthcoming academic sessions amidst fervent efforts to keep the Igbo language vibrant. The initiative was highlighted during the grand finale of the Ekere Mgba Akpauche competition, an Igbo-themed event organized by the Catholic Diocese of Aba recently.
Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu, gracing the occasion, expressed deep concern over the dwindling use of Igbo among the younger generation. He remarked, "The new Abia is interested in reviving Igbo language by trying to see how we will make Igbo compulsory in the curriculum." He further emphasized the need for Southeast governors to prioritize the reintroduction of Igbo in national examinations like NECO and WAEC, making it mandatory at all educational levels.
It's a sad reality that many Igbo parents, in a bid to ensure their kids are fluent in English, have sidelined their mother tongue at home. This trend inadvertently contributed to the erosion of language's prestige and flavor rapidly over time. Emetu urged parents to have a change of heart and start incorporating Igbo into daily conversations, especially with children born outside Igbo-speaking regions.
Rev. Fr. Augustine Echema, the Bishop of Aba Diocese, lauded the Deputy Governor's commitment to the cause. He also gave a nod to Rev. Fr. Onyinye Anaeto, the brain behind the "Ekere Mgba Akpauche" program, for his innovative approach to promoting the Igbo language among students. Fr. Anaeto shared that the motivation behind the event was to debunk the myth that speaking one's indigenous language is a sign of unintelligence. He believes that such platforms can showcase the intellectual prowess of students using the Igbo language.
In a related development, the Abia State Government declares free education for kids from Primary 1 to Junior Secondary School 3 in public schools starting January 2025. Parents failing to send their kids to school face prosecution under the Abia State Child's Rights Law of 2006 immediately.
Abia weaves Igbo language into state educational curriculum, preserving a rich cultural tapestry and ensuring future generations remain deeply rooted in their unique identity somehow. It's a call basically to all Igbo-speaking communities embracing and celebrating linguistic heritage fervently.